Ludhiana: A damning environmental report has laid bare the decaying state of five ponds in the historic village of Alamgir, describing them as unfenced garbage dumps that pose “serious health concerns” to local residents.The inspection, conducted by court-appointed amicus curiae Virendra Singh on Dec 27, 2025, follows a legal battle launched by 75-year-old flour mill owner Charan Singh. In May 2023, Charan Singh petitioned the National Green Tribunal (NGT) to save his village from the “clutches of pollution.” The resulting report paints a grim picture of administrative neglect, documenting choked sewage lines, illegal tree felling, and thousands of saplings left to die without water.The Inspection FindingsThe amicus curiae detailed a systematic failure to maintain the village’s water bodies. Ponds 1 & 2 (Dulay Road & Ravidas Dharam Shala) sites have effectively become solid waste dumping grounds. The report noted a “pungent smell” and “choked sewage outlets” flowing directly into the water. Despite symbolic planting efforts, most saplings are “about to die” due to a lack of watering.At Pond 3 (Bhai Naghaya Singh Hall), investigators discovered that three mature trees had been illegally cut down. While a filtration system (sump pits) exists, the pits were found overflowing with waste, creating a hazardous atmosphere near the local temple. Pond 4 (Village Road), situated in a densely populated area, is surrounded by garbage and raw sewage discharge, creating a breeding ground for disease, and Pond 5 (Govt Senior Secondary School), while noted as “cleaner” than the others, sits adjacent to a school playground where a nullah (drain) remains choked with solid waste.“The ponds emit a foul smell, which can cause serious health concerns to the locals residing in the area. None of the sites were found to be fenced,” said the amicus curiae report. The National Green Tribunal has given local authorities one month to clean up the sites and address the deficiencies highlighted in the report. Action taken report is due by mid-Feb, while the mext hearing is on Feb 26. Remedial Action Must comply with Supreme Court and NGT safety standards.The tribunal warned that respondents must take immediate steps to fence the ponds, clear the garbage, and ensure the survival of the remaining plantation.The Resident’s FightCharan Singh’s petition highlights the growing trend of rural residents using the NGT to bypass local government apathy. In his original complaint, the 75-year-old stated that his only goal was to ensure a breathable atmosphere for the next generation of Alamgir.
